Finding creativity in a time of stress can be a great way to release tension and relax the mind. Focusing your mind on something positive can give you the much needed relaxation, a sense of fulfillment, and can make your day go by faster. Taking these steps can help you find your creativity and forget (at least for a short time) about the bad information all around us.
Step 1: Log out
Dedicate at least 2 hours where you will completely disconnect. No social media, no updates in your chat groups, no turning on and off the TV to check for the latest news. Dedicate this time only to your creativity, and, as tough as it may sound, try to clear your mind and prepare it for creation.
Step 2: Build a creative surrounding
Maybe creating from home isn’t the best-case scenario, but we all have to adjust to the current conditions. Find a corner in your apartment that will be dedicated for work and try to make it as cozy and efficient as possible.
Set up your work materials, remove any house appliances that might remind you that you’re still at home, and get into work mode! Lighting up a scented candle and getting a warm cup of tea might sound funny at first, but can really help you relax and leave the stress zone.
Step 3: Start with the simple things
Step 3: Start with the simple things
Start doing something creative that is easy for you. Whether it’s drawing, searching for inspiration, writing, anything that doesn’t require full concentration, but still asks for some effort and dedication.
Step 4: Create!
Try the Pomodoro Technique. It was used for writing but it can be used in any type of creative job. Set an alarm and work for 25minutes straight. In those 25 minutes focus completely on creating – no editing, no turning back, just let out everything that you have within you.
Once the alarm rings, draw a check mark and have a 5 minute break. After completing the break, go through another cycle. After 4 of the same cycles, have a longer break of 30 minutes. Use the time slot after the break to edit your work, and then, start again. 🙂
Step 5: Don’t give up!
Step 5: Don’t give up!
Even if it doesn’t work at first, try to stay calm and keep trying. The effort itself is a good distraction and can help you focus your mind on something other than the current stress. Don’t get disappointed and quit, give yourself more chances and more love for even trying.